The practice of Humility - 55

Do not think that you possess humility because you enjoy much tranquillity and peace in the midst of contempt and contradictions.  Very often pride is only lulled; it creates havoc again as soon as it is awakened. Your weapons should be self-knowledge, escaping from honors, and love for humiliations; never rid yourself of them, not even for an instant. Do not be afraid of losing this rich inheritance again; to humble oneself is the sure means to keep the precious gift of humility.

J. Pecci (later Pope Leo XIII)